FBI, Rexburg and Chino Police continue search for AK-47 bandit

Police continue searching for the AK-47 bandit.

The East Idaho Credit Union in Rexburg was robbed Wednesday and police believe he is the suspect.

Rexburg Police are teaming up with outside detectives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

“It’s a nationwide search for this man,” said Rexburg Police Chief Shane Turman. “We consider this person extremely dangerous.”

Police said it all began in February when the suspect robbed a bank in Chino California.

Chino police said as the suspect was leaving the bank, he ran into a police officer in a marked car and began firing with his AK-47. Police said one of the bullets shattered that officer’s femur and another narrowly missed his head, but he survived.

“Thank goodness the officer is recovering from that,” said Turman. “However, this gentlemen will engage at police officers or anybody else that would get in his way.”

From there, the AK-47 bandit went on to rob banks in Vacaville California, North Bend Washington and now … eastern Idaho.

Friday afternoon, Rexburg Police, along with members of the FBI and Chino Police Detectives Chuck Dominguez and Curtis Burton, are expanding to a regional search.

“We’re canvassing much of the state of Idaho, going into Washington, Montana, Wyoming, Utah,” said Turman. “All over to find clues and information that would lead to the capture of the suspect.”

Police say the AK-47 bandit is a white man, around 5’10” between 220-230 lbs.

They said he has a stocky build and is expected to be driving a dark, four-door sedan with tinted windows.

The FBI is offering a reward of $50,000 and the East Idaho Credit Union in Rexburg is offering an additional $20,000 for anyone with information leading to the arrest of this man.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Rexburg Police Department at 208-359-3008.